The Government of India is taking major steps to improve the forensic sector through the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme, approved in 2024. This scheme focuses on building modern forensic facilities, hiring more trained staff, and improving scientific support for criminal investigations. It will help make justice faster and more accurate by improving how evidence is examined and analysed.

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Budget and Duration of the Scheme

The total budget of the National Forensic Infrastructure scheme is ₹2254.43 crore, and it will be implemented between 2024-25 and 2028-29. The main goal is to modernise forensic laboratories across India. This includes upgrading machines, creating new labs, and improving the quality and speed of forensic testing. With better infrastructure and technology, law enforcement agencies will receive timely and reliable forensic support for solving crimes.

Expansion of Central Forensic Science Laboratories

To improve access to scientific services across India, the government has approved the setup of eight new Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs) in 2023 and 2024. These labs will help reduce pending forensic case backlogs. This expansion ensures that regions with limited access now have better support for scientific investigations. At the same time, recruitment in existing labs is ongoing to strengthen manpower.

Improving Workforce and Recruitment Process

The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken steps to review staffing needs in CFSLs. Recruitment rules are being adjusted to speed up hiring. Until permanent staff are appointed, trained forensic experts are being hired temporarily on contract. States and Union Territories have also been advised to fast-track hiring in their own forensic laboratories. This approach aims to fill gaps quickly and ensure smooth functioning.

Important Points to Remember

The National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme was approved in 2024.
Total budget: ₹2254.43 crore, covering 2024-25 to 2028-29.
Eight new CFSLs have been approved in 2023 and 2024.
NFSU conducts the Forensic Aptitude and Calibre Test (FACT) every year.

Role of NFSU and Skill Development

The National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), established in 2020, plays a major role in training skilled forensic professionals. Its annual FACT examination helps identify qualified candidates for forensic roles in laboratories. Along with government reforms, training programs and policy support are helping build a strong workforce for the future. These efforts will improve the forensic ecosystem and support efficient criminal justice in India.